6 Spring Superfoods That Shouldn't Be Missed PDF Print E-mail
Spring is here, which means it's time to prepare for another round of our favorite seasonal superfoods! While you can get many of these foods all year round, the ones that topped this list taste particularly good right now and are usually cheaper to buy, if you enjoy fresh produce. This doesn't mean that we don't love the superfood classics, like pumpkin and pomegranates, but we want to celebrate ways you can enjoy foods that are at their pique in spring!

Asparagus - This delicious veggie screams spring! It's also the food highest in glutathione, an anti-carcinogen. Rich in folate and vitamin E, asparagus also helps combat heart disease.

Leeks - These mildly sweet vegetables look like a larger version of a green onion. Because it's part of the garlic and onion family (alliums), leeks specialize in helping the liver get rid of toxins and carcinogens. These little guys are also associated with a reduced risk of colon cancer when consumed regularly.

Strawberries - Who doesn't enjoy eating this bright red berry as soon as spring hits? Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, maganese, folate and fiber. Some of the superstar antioxidants in strawberries are anthocyanins and quercetin. Anthocyanins can inhibit the growth of certain cancer cells, while quercetin protects the brain cells from oxidation, which may help prevent Alzheimer's.

Artichoke - These pretty vegetables contain high amounts of phytonutrients. Artichokes are strongly linked to liver healthy. It's thought that the phytonutrients Cynarin and Silymarin may have positive affects on liver disease and liver cancer. Eating one large artichoke has 25% of your daily value of fiber!

Fava Bean - These beans are good for your entire health because they are rich in fiber, which can lower you cholesterol and protect your heart. These beans are also great vegetarian options because they are packed with protein. If shopping for fresh beans, look for smaller pods with no bulge. Shelling these beans may take a little extra work, but the nutritional benefits are worth it!

Spinach - This green vegetable didn't make Popeye strong for nothing! Spinach is an excellent source of folate, the B vitamin that helps prevent birth defects, heart disease, dementia and colon cancer. Spinach also contains lutein, which can help protect your eyes from macular degeneration. High in vitamin K, this important leafy green also helps build strong muscles, which can help prevent injuries from osteoporosis.

 

Comments  

 
0 Amanda 05-10-11 09:47
I'd like to try the fava beans! I'm never sure what type of beans are best, I figure they all are beneficial but I find myself going for black, pinto, and lima beans. Favas sound like a nice change, extra protein is a plus!
 

Add comment


Security code
Refresh






What beauty product should you ditch after age 25?